Missouri Governor Lobbies for Support for Veto of Tax Cuts

May succeed in avoiding override

It is an uncommon sight in American politics—a governor barnstorming his state to rail against tax cuts.

But Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is on a campaign-style crusade to win public support for his veto of an income tax cut bill, even as state taxes nationwide are trending downward.

Nixon, a Democrat, has taken his case to towns across the state, arguing that corporate income tax cuts that are meant to draw business to Missouri would in fact harm schools and mental health services. Nixon has made 29 appearances since July 15 to defend his position.

Missouri lawmakers will meet Wednesday to vote on a veto override, which takes a two-thirds majority in the House and Senate, and even some Republicans admit that Nixon may win the fight.